Milford Forum Questions
Miford, New Hampshire Educational Forum on Civil Liberties: The Patriot Act and related measures.
Wednesday, September 1st 7:00 PM
Featuring Michael Avery, an Associate Professor of Law at Suffolk University Law School in Boston, MA and the President of the National Lawyers Guild. Also, Alfred Rubega, US Attorney¹s Office, former head of Gun Owners of NH, and 1996 gubernatorial candidate.
Scripted Questions
1. Conflict with Constitution: Does the USA PATRIOT Act conflict with the US Constitution's Bill of Rights? Isn't it normal in times of national threat and fears for our security that this conflict occur?
2. Use of the Law: Have there been any legal cases brought to date involving the USA PATRIOT Act, related Executive Orders, legislation or regulations passed in support of broader executive powers?
3. Non-Terrorist Use of the Law: Some people are concerned that this Act and related measures will be used to abridge their rights to protest. Please comment on this concern and address whether these provisions have been used for things other than counteracting terrorism.
4. Impact of 9/11 Report: How might the recommendations from the 9/11 Commission impact our civil liberties?
5. FISA Court: Describe the FISA Court and National Security Letters, how they work, and what impact they have on the reach of executive powers.
6. Future Congressional Action: Please address the sentiment of Congress and our political leadership regarding the future of the USA PATRIOT Act, the FISA Courts, and other related measures and whether it is likely that these powers will be expanded, sunsetted, or eliminated in the next congress and administration. For example, what do you think will happen to the SAFE Act?
7. Changes You Would Make: Summarize the changes
you would make, if any, to the USA PATRIOT Act and related measures.